X-Ray, Ultrasound or MRI Referral

Physiotherapists who have completed a post-graduate course on diagnostic imaging through the University of Alberta and are registered with the College of Physiotherapists of Alberta are authorized to refer patients for diagnostic imaging.

Your physiotherapist will determine if an x-ray, ultrasound, or MRI referral is warranted or necessary for your injury condition either at the time of assessment or during the course of your treatment.

When do you recommend having a diagnostic test?

Diagnostic imaging tests can assist in gaining further information to confirm a diagnosis, determine a different course of treatment, or referral to another health care practitioner.

Your physiotherapist is under no obligation to refer you for any of these tests if he or she does not consider the test to be medically necessary and/or will change the course of your treatment. Your physiotherapist may need to communicate with your family physician prior to ordering any diagnostic imaging tests.

What do x-rays show?

X-rays are used to assess bones and joints for possible fractures, dislocations, or joint conditions such as osteoarthritis.

What does a diagnostic ultrasound show?

Diagnostic ultrasound is used to assess tendons and muscles for possible tears or inflammation, such as rotator cuff tears or Achilles strains/tears.

What does an MRI show?

MRI, or Magnetic Resonance Imaging, is the most detailed form of diagnostic imaging. It is used to assess joints, nerves, and other soft tissue structures in great detail for such conditions as ligament or meniscal injuries in the knee or disc protrusions in the spine.

For more information on x-ray, ultrasound, and MRI referral, feel free to give our clinic a call at (403) 455-4010 or email us at info@calgarycorephysio.ca.